Collab Cafe

"We are in Kauai for a week on vacation and came here for lunch - we had the breakfast sandwich and one of their toasts. I can’t comment on the coffee, as we didn’t have any. The food tasted good, but was certainly pricey for the amount - definitely a quality over quantity kind of place, as they were relatively small bites. The best part of the meal by far is their bread, which we really enjoyed. They also have plant-based ice cream that people seemed to like. The cafe itself is part of a strip mall - there’s limited seating inside and outside you’re just right by the parking lot. If I’m visiting a beautiful place like Kauai, I’d tend toward cafes with better atmospheres and views. They also add an 18% “equitable service charge” to your order to provide a “livable wage” for their team (in lieu of tipping). This really left a bad taste in my mouth. I already paid close to $30 for a breakfast sandwich and toast, and now I’m required to pay extra so that employees have a higher salary? I don’t understand why that is coming out of my pocket? I’ve never been to a cafe that does this, and it felt (for lack of a better term) kind of slimy…I’ve seen service charges at nice restaurants or with large groups, but not at a coffee shop where you place an order at the counter and the extent of service is the food being brought to your table. I don’t think most people will realize they’re paying this, as it is in fine print at the bottom of their menu, and easily missed - it should be way more transparent and posted next to where you order. It should also be optional. I’d suggest removing this surcharge, expanding the food menu a bit (maybe a yogurt bowl?), and adding some more seating inside. Until then, I’m not sure I’d recommend coming here if you have limited time on the island."

"We ordered their brisket toast and their pulled pork sandwich from their Sunday brunch and lunch menus. Both were delicious, you could tell the meat and bread were locally made! The service and ambiance was 10/10. They collab with other local artists and sellers and showcase community work! Stickers, art pieces, coffee, and live music was available during our stay. We’re from out of town and stumbled here near the end of our trip, just wish we found it sooner to visit more frequently. Definitely make a stop here!"

"Fantastic, fresh food to complement some delicious coffee! I love that they roast the coffee right there in the shop. The whole place was definitely giving SoCal/Arizona vibes. It's a very kid friendly place, which is not usual for a coffee shop so that was nice to see. There is a small table of toys for young kids, which is awesome. The mushroom toast was incredible, both in flavor and presentation. The avocado toast was fantastic as well, but could use a little something (Sriracha or some chili flakes) in my opinion. But it's a solid avocado toast regardless. I tried the 'Iwa Espresso Soda and it had a great coffee base flavor mixed with the coconut flavor of the whip. It's definitely a carbonated drink, thanks to the soda water, so keep that in mind. In Re: to "the menu is way limited" review here - "a jack of all trades is a master of none." I hope some day you are able to experience a fine dining experience. The menu is very limited but this is because of the care and craftsmanship that goes into each meal. What ends up happening when a menu has too many options? Frozen, reheated food. So give this one another chance, because aside from the ice cream, it's anything but frozen."

"Great and clean atmosphere, very bright and lots of natural wood decor. Even had a little corner with some nice kids items and books for our toddler. The mushroom toast with poached egg on top was really good, would get it again. The avocado toast was good, but don’t think the pickled onions went well with it. Plating for both was exceptional. Plates are small enough you’ll still be hungry if looking for a meal. The soda espresso thing was not my favorite."

"It was the best coffee place in Kauai. Very friendly staff, and good quality of coffee and food. We got cappuccino, mac nut latte, mushroom toast, and eggy salad toast. They were all good but the mushroom toast with chili crunch was the bomb. Highly recommend!! They have big brunch menu and live music on Sundays."